Pilsdon Pen Circular Walk

At a Glance

Distance

3.2 km (2.0 miles)

Difficulty

Moderate

Duration

1 hr 10 min

Walk Type

Historic, Peak

Route Type

Circular

Off Lead Potential

Low

Livestock Risk

High

Facilities

None on site; nearest shops and pubs are in Broadwindsor, about three miles away.

Parking

Roadside lay-by at the foot of the hill on the B3164, limited spaces, no formal car park.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is Pilsdon Pen Circular Walk dog friendly?

  Pilsdon Pen is a dog friendly walk, rated 7 out of 10. It's a rewarding short circuit of around 3.2km taking in one of Dorset's highest points, with spectacular views stretching to the Jurassic Coast, Exmoor and the Quantock Hills. The main thing to be aware of is that livestock graze the hill throughout, so dogs need to be kept on a lead for the duration of the walk.

• Can dogs be off lead at Pilsdon Pen Circular Walk?

  Unfortunately, off-lead time isn't really an option here. Sheep and cattle graze the hill, and the National Trust advises keeping dogs on a short lead whenever livestock are nearby — which at Pilsdon Pen is likely to be throughout the walk. If your dog needs a good run, it's worth pairing this visit with a nearby open space where livestock aren't present.

• What should I know before visiting Pilsdon Pen Circular Walk with my dog?

  The climb to the summit is steep — around 128 metres of ascent on a short, steep footpath — and the ground can be slippery and uneven in wet weather, which may be hard going for older or less mobile dogs. There is no water, shade or any facilities on the exposed hilltop, so bring enough water for your dog. Parking is limited to a small roadside lay-by on the B3164 with no formal car park, and the nearest shops and pubs are in Broadwindsor, about three miles away.

Roadside lay-by, B3164, Pilsdon, Bridport DT6 5NX

50.8048, -2.8331